MONTREAL, Canada – It is said that, “Dedication is not what others expect of you, it is what you can give to others.” And it is in that “giving spirit” that Third World approaches each and every one of their shows. The group understands that their fans are key components of their success and so no matter the weather or circumstance, they will show up and show out. And this they did this past weekend at the Montreal International Reggae Festival.
In its 8th year, the Montreal International Reggae Festival boasts an impressive line-up of artists that has graced their stage. With the theme “United Against Violence,” this year’s line-up included Gyptian, Jahvinci, Wayne Wonder, Beres Hammond and Third World Band. On Sunday, August 21, 2011, the view from the stage was not that of a sea of faces of anticipated fans, but rather the tops of umbrellas and rain coats. “It is always amazing to us what great lengths fans go through to come out and see us perform. And this is not something we take for granted,” states Stephen “Cat” Coore. The rainy and windy weather was no match for the Reggae Ambassadors who kept the audience dancing the entire ninety minute set.
The Quays of The Old Port came alive when the band opened with Spirits Lives from their new album Patriots. They followed up with Sense of Purpose, 96 Degrees (Second Generation), Reggae Ambassadors, Now That We’ve Found Love, Try Jah Love, among others. Fans were delighted when the band paid homage to the late Gregory Isaacs, who is also featured on the group’s album. As part of their tribute, the band performed Front Door and Rumors.
And in honoring a musical legend, they were also honored. The International Year for People of African Descent, in remembrance of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and its abolition 23rd August, The Black Coalition of Quebec and the Round Table on Black History Month Presented an award to Third World Band for their outstanding contribution. “We thank the Black Coalition of Quebec and the Round Table on Black History Month for the prestigious award. It is always a great feeling when we are not only recognized for the work that we do but also to know that our music has such a significant impact,” remarked Richard Daley.
Prior to their performance in Montreal, Third World also performed in a concert that honored Marcus Garvey at York College Performing Arts Center in Queens, New York on August 17, 2011. Karen Clements of the Jamaica Examiner writes, “On the heels of its Jamaican Independence Celebration, York College hosted reggae band legend Third World. The free concert, sponsored by Councilman James Sanders Jr., filled the rafters with fans both old and new. And what an event! There is a reason why Ed Robinson, the opening act, is a reggae chart topper. This crowd pleaser and showman wowed with his range and open exchanges with the audience. He took a great show to the next level by switching from vocalist to drummer.
But the true Reggae Ambassadors, Third World, tore the house up. Their musicianship of over 30 years in the business has stood the test of time and remains strong. Their classics still feel fresh and new music from their Patriots CD continues their strong tradition. The crowd was on its feet to “Try Ja Love” and “Now That We Found Love”. Their powerhouse performance was punctuated by a high impact drum performance and a cellist solo by band member Stephen Coore which was monumental, moving and worthy of its standing ovation.”
The band continues their tour with performances in Atlanta, GA on September 4th, Australia on September 10th, Fiji on September 16th and 17th, Dominica on October 29th and Los Angeles on November 16th.
